Vertical or horizontal loading - which washing machine to choose

Let's consider an automatic washing machine with vertical or top loading of laundry. When choosing a washing machine, the dimensions of household appliances are not the last thing to consider.

In modern space conditions, saving space with maximum functionality is important. Therefore, it is necessary to clearly determine what capabilities the bathroom has to make the washing process optimally comfortable.

Design feature of “verticals”
Advantages and disadvantages
Dimensions and capacity
Review of popular models of 2019-2020
Consumer Reviews
Tips for Choosing the Best Top Loading AGRs
How to care and video
Catalog of washing machines with characteristics

Design feature of “verticals”

In a top-loading SMA, access to the drum opens from the top - this is its main difference from most models with a front door. Thanks to this parameter, the manufacturer has the opportunity to make narrower external dimensions of the equipment.

Vertical in the interior

It is convenient to place such equipment against any wall or in combination with other devices nearby. Due to the more secure mounting of the drum, the vibration of models of this type is reduced. This not only makes it easier to find a place for installation, but also reduces the pressure on the bearings.

Peculiarities

As we said above, the main feature of a top-loading washing unit is the absence of a front glass hatch. The laundry is placed into the drum through the top lid. If you have very little space left in your bathroom after installing a sink and bathtub, opt for a vertical model. However, it is worth considering that, firstly, there must be enough space above the equipment so that the lid can be opened freely, and secondly, no things can be stored on the unit.

The main feature of a vertical washing machine is the drum, which opens from the top.

Because of these features, appliances are rarely placed in the kitchen; as a rule, they can be found in the bathroom or utility room. The reason is simple - it is quite difficult to integrate a vertical washing machine under a countertop.

There is an opinion that top-loading models break down more often. However, reviews from experts do not confirm such conclusions, but rather refute them. The design of such equipment largely determines its increased reliability. The drum of a top-loading washing machine is mounted not on one bearing assembly, but on two (on both sides), accordingly, the load is distributed more evenly, and breakdowns due to bearing wear occur much less frequently.

Top-loading machines are available with electronic, mechanical and mixed control types. A unit with mechanical levers is less sensitive to power surges in the network, which means it is protected from failure due to the breakdown of complex electronic components.

Thus, the features of this type of equipment are limited mainly by ergonomics and practically do not affect functionality. Now let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of top-loading washing machines.

To make the right choice, you need to know all the positive and negative aspects of technology.

Advantages and disadvantages

Among the advantages of “verticals” it is also worth noting:

ease of use;
ease of installation;

minimal risk of breakdowns;
ease of care and loading of laundry into the drum.

The design provides a key and door locking function. This model is preferable for those who keep animals at home, and is also difficult to access for children.

There are minor drawbacks:

limited assortment;
high price;
There is no option to select increased loading volumes.

SMA Candy

There is one more drawback, but it is not important for everyone. The cost of parts when replacing bearings is several times higher than that of an SMA with front-loading laundry. This is due to the fact that they are pressed into the hub. And you need to buy them assembled.

Narrow devices

All automatic washing machines, depending on their width, are divided into two large groups:

narrow;
standard (40 cm or more in width).

They all have their own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages.

There are several options for narrow horizontal loading washing machines.

Siemens WS 10G160

The device holds 5 kg of laundry, has 13 washing programs, and is equipped with a special function to speed up any process.

Washing machine Siemens WS 10G160 OE

Among the advantages of this washing machine:

quiet operation;
high quality workmanship;
simple controls;
a large number of additional functions;
the ability to add linen while working.

There are only two disadvantages:

The hatch cover does not correspond slightly to the dimensions specified in the instructions.
The hatch latch often fails.

According to consumers, this model is an excellent example of a combination of affordable price and high quality.

Zanussi ZWSG 7101 V

Another narrow washing machine with small dimensions - its width is approximately 40 cm and its capacity is 6 kg. It has a unique Fuzzy Logic system, which is able to recognize the type of fabric from which the laundry is made and determine the optimal amount of detergent. Among the Zanussi disadvantages of this model is the increased noise level when draining and pouring water.

Washing machine ZANUSSI ZWSG 7101 V

Bosch WLG 20160

Has a number of useful additional functions:

Possibility to delay start.
Control of foam formation.
Protection from small children.
Leak or overflow protection system.

Indesit IWSB 5085

Indesit also has narrow horizontal-loading washing machines. IWSB 5085 is designed for 5 kg of laundry. It has several special washing modes, for example, for denim, additional rinsing or stain removal. If you follow the operating instructions, the device will operate with minimal noise.

Washing machine narrow Indesit IWSB 5085 (CIS)

The disadvantages of the Indesit machine of this model include the absence of a signal about the end of the process. There may also be water remaining in the detergent container.

Zanussi ZWSO 6100 V

You can add another device from Zanussi to the list - the horizontal-loading washing machine ZWSO 6100 V, shown in the photo. It holds 4 kg of laundry. The main feature of this device is the precise dosage of both water and detergent.

Washing machine Zanussi ZWSE 6100 V

This machine has a foam control system, leakage protection and the ability to add laundry during the washing process. It also has one significant drawback - the time mentioned in the instructions often does not coincide with the present.

Which of the listed cars is better to purchase depends on the needs of each specific family.

Dimensions and capacity

Often, when purchasing a washing machine, the determining parameter of choice is its size. And one of the main functions of interest to the consumer is the maximum permissible weight of laundry.

Of the entire wide range of equipment, models with vertical loading do not have much variety:

width 40-45 cm,

depth 60 cm,

height 85 cm.

Understanding the volume of daily use of the machine and weekly laundry in kilograms will help you make your choice. The statement that small-sized equipment cannot accommodate a lot of things is wrong. If you move through the offers within the same price category from different manufacturers, the set of functions will be similar.

Expert opinion

I work in the household appliance repair industry. Extensive experience in restoring washing machines and dishwashers.

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Daewoo produces compact models of non-standard dimensions.

Flaws

Vertical models also have disadvantages. First of all, you need to take into account that such equipment often costs slightly more than conventional ones. Maintenance and repairs will also be expensive. The variety of models of top-loading washing units is much smaller than traditional ones. But to some extent, this may even make the choice easier.

A small hole in the drum can make loading bulky items like blankets, bedspreads and stuffed animals difficult, and the non-dismountable powder tray makes it difficult to clean out any residual detergent.

A small hole in the drum of a vertical washing machine can create difficulties when loading bulky items

The minor disadvantages of top-loading washing machines do not outweigh their advantages. If compactness, reliability and durability come first for you, choose a vertical home assistant.

Review of popular models of 2019-2020

Electrolux EWT 1064 ERW is the best machine for this category of top-loading equipment. Suitable for families not exceeding 4 people. The interface is equipped with 14 washing programs. It has a spacious drum, with a reliable locking system and the ability to add things during the process. Fully complies with energy consumption class A++, which significantly saves energy and water.

Electrolux EWT 1064 ERW

Equipped with 8 types of drum rotation - this makes washing effective and gentle at the same time. It is protected from leaks, has foam quantity control, and a timer with the ability to set a specific wash delay time. The noise level in this Electrolux equipment is slightly above average. Easy to manage and easy to care for.

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Zanussi ZWQ 61216 WA

The world leader in the field of household and professional laundry, Zanussi, occupies a leading position in the Russian market. The automatic parameters are configured so that at high power the machine does not consume much energy. Washing efficiency class is excellent.

You shouldn't expect a quiet buzz from the model, although vibration is minimal. It is possible to independently adjust the balance of the drum using simple instructions.

Following consumer reviews, it is not difficult to draw a conclusion about the reliability, careful handling of things, and cost-effectiveness of devices from this company. Owners note the simplicity of the design and ease of control.

Whirlpool AWE 6516

The price is lower than competitors' analogues. It is possible to configure programs manually and change parameters during the washing process. There is an economical rinse and delicate spin mode, as well as a separate cycle for silk, wool, and knitwear. The biowash function provides the optimal temperature to activate the properties of enzyme gels.

A multi-stage washing safety control system guarantees careful handling of laundry and the elimination of operational problems. The main disadvantage of this Whirlpool washing machine is its high noise level.

Indesit ITW A 5851 W

Not a bad choice of model, based on the price-quality principle.

With small dimensions it perfectly accommodates 6 kg of laundry.
Saves water and has a quick wash and extra rinse mode. E
There is a pre-soak function.
Indesit machines are easy to use.

Candy EVOGT 12072 D

If there is a need to wash a lot and regularly, this is the optimal choice of brand. Capacious drum, multifunctionality, high washing class, the ability to program and delay the process for up to 24 hours.

AEG L 56126 TL

It’s not a budget option, but it’s worth the cost. Powerful but economical; compact but roomy. Huge selection of washing programs, high maximum spin speed. Does not damage delicate tissues.

Choice

What to pay attention to

Which model to choose? Of course, there are not as many machines with vertical loading as with front loading, but you still need to approach the choice with all responsibility.

When choosing a top-loading washing unit, you need to carefully study the characteristics of the models

Recently, vertical air-bubble washing machines have been gaining popularity, in which a special generator is installed that saturates the water with air bubbles. This technology helps improve the quality of washing, gently wash even the most difficult stains, while saving electricity and water. The disadvantages of such units are their high price and large dimensions.

Front-loading models of washing machines and dryers are quite large, but top-loading units capable of drying clothes can be quite compact. This feature is due to the design of the equipment.

To choose the right washing machine, you first need to understand what volume . On average, a vertical washing machine is designed for 6-7 kg. If you plan to wash bulky items, it is better to choose a model with the ability to load more than 7 kg of laundry.

An important criterion is the type of management . Fully electronic panels are easy to use, and most models with LCD screens are equipped with a self-diagnosis function - the unit displays information error codes on the display, which can be used to determine the nature of the malfunction. Washing machines with mechanical or mixed control types are less sensitive to voltage changes and more reliable.

Washing machines with mechanical control are insensitive to voltage changes

When choosing a suitable model, you need to pay attention to the energy consumption class (the most economical unit will be class A++) and spin performance (machine with spin class A is best at spinning).

As we noted above, vertical models have a fairly low noise level , which should also be taken into account when purchasing.

Review of popular models

Based on reviews of top-loading washing machines, we have prepared a short overview of popular models:

Korting KWMT 0860 is a unit produced in Italy. Among the advantages of the model are a relatively affordable price, the ability to load up to 6 kg of laundry with small dimensions, and a liquid crystal display. The machine is equipped with a removable detergent tray, which is not found in all top-loading machines. The tank is made of modern composite material, which reduces vibration and noise during operation, and also maintains the required temperature throughout the wash, which saves energy;
Zanussi ZWQ61025WI is an affordable model equipped with Fuzzy Logic technology. It consists of electronically assessing the amount of laundry and automatically selecting the most appropriate washing parameters (water volume, cycle time, number of rinses, drum speed, etc.).
AEG L 56126 TL is a washing machine of the highest quality and reliability. It has many useful functions, including leakage protection and delayed start. The unit is equipped with a compartment for liquid detergent. The advantages are also high spin speed and efficiency.

According to numerous ratings, top-loading washing machines produced by AEG, Zanussi and Indesit are considered the best, and Candy, Bosch and Whirlpool are considered quite reliable.

We hope that our article will help you choose the right top-loading washing machine.

Consumer Reviews

Two years ago we were choosing a new automatic machine for our small apartment. We settled on a top-loading model. To save space, we built it into the kitchen set. Very comfortably.

Egor, 34 years old, Pskov

We recently moved, and when we needed to purchase household appliances, we again bought a top-loading machine model. A similar design has served us for 12 years without any problems.

Elena, 36 years old, Belgorod

The top-loading machine turned out to have a manufacturing defect. Vibrated very strongly during the spin cycle. I had to replace it with a new one and ask the service department to immediately check the balancing of the drum mounting bolts. I advise everyone to solve this problem immediately.

Igor, 30 years old, Ekaterinburg

I was suspicious about the idea of buying a top-loading model, but it turned out that it not only saves space in the bathroom, but is also very roomy inside. I got used to the design features quite quickly and did not find any shortcomings

Daria, 32 years old, Ufa

“Vertical” – which one is better?

A top-loading machine is a good purchase if you are limited in square meters. Having studied the modern market, we have selected the highest quality options.

Place in the ranking	1	2	3	4	5
Brand parameters	Electrolux EWT1064 ERW	Zanussi ZWQ 61216WA	Whirlpool AWE 6516	Indesit ITWA5851W	Candy EVOGT12072D
Dimensions (Height/Width/Depth)	89/60/40 cm	89/60/40 cm	90/60/40 cm	87/58/40 cm	88/63/40 cm
Capacity	6 kg	6 kg	5 kg	5 kg	7 kg
Weight	58.6 kg	57 kg	58 kg	50 kg	56 kg
Spin speed	1000 rpm	1200 rpm	1000 rpm	800 rpm	1200 rpm
Number of programs	14	8	18	18	18
Maximum noise level	74 dB	78 dB	75 dB	72 dB	77 dB
Leak protection	partial	full	partial	partial	partial
Peculiarities	Economical, night wash, program end signal	Imbalance control, Fuzzy Logic technology	Antibacterial wash, bio-enzyme phase	Foam control, delayed start mode	“Easy ironing” mode, water level selection, load volume recognition, delayed start

Despite their modest design, vertical washing machines are not inferior to front-facing ones in terms of the number of “lotions” and the quality of washing.

Tips for Choosing the Best Top Loading AGRs

SMA electrolux

If the consumer has chosen the vertical option of loading things into the drum, then the next option will be economical use. Do not forget that delicate washing requires more water, so opt for high-power models, but with functions for controlling the level of foam and the ability to switch the mode to a quick rinse.

Not all companies produce such washers. For example, in the assortment of Samsung, Atlant, Hansa there are no models with vertical loading of laundry. This is important to understand if you have a favorite brand whose products you prefer.

The following companies not mentioned above manufacture such machines: Bosch, Haier, Gorenje, Hotpoint-Ariston, Kaiser, Korting, LG, Midea, Miele, Weissgauff.

Important operating tips:

The instructions indicate maximum load for cotton fabrics. This must be taken into account when washing wool, synthetics and natural silk. The weight of such products will vary.
Price does not always determine the level of quality of washing. Most of the additional functions of newfangled models may not be useful, and the simplest modification will provide a good result.
Calculate the approximate amount of laundry for the family, taking into account the degree of soiling of the items. After this, they judge the dimensions of the drum and the need for soaking and high-temperature functions.
If there is a night program for electricity consumption, and you plan to wash at night to save money, then the noise level from the machine becomes an important parameter. The more powerful the machine and the higher the spin speed, the louder the sound will be.
For uniforms and a large number of work clothes with difficult stains, the steam function will not be superfluous. It will eliminate unpleasant odors and deal with stubborn stains of various natures.

If you need a washer and dryer, then you need to understand that not all manufacturers produce these models. List of companies manufacturing such SMAs: Brandt, Siemens, Ardo, Blomberg, Zarget.

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How to choose a narrow washing machine

Thin washing machines must live up to their name, performing functions on par with their full-sized “colleagues”. Therefore, let's pay attention to the following parameters:

Dimensions. The body depth of narrow machines is from 40 to 46 cm, super-narrow - from 32 to 38 cm. Height is 85–91 cm and width is 59.5–60 cm, within the classic dimensions.
Capacity. The shallow drum can hold 3 to 5 kg of dry laundry. But the developers are working on this issue. “Babies” with drums designed for 6–8 kg of loading are already beginning to appear.
Sustainability. Depends on weight. The more counterweights there are in the machine, the less likely it is to turn and flip in the wrong direction.
Spin speed. The maximum speed of the new expensive models has already reached 1200 rpm. Average speed is from 800 to 1000 rpm. The higher the speed, the drier the laundry after washing.
Number of programs. More does not mean better, the main thing is the availability of popular modes. Additional features like Steam Clean, Anti-Allergy Rinse will be the sweet icing on the cake.
Leak protection. An important quality of the model is complete protection against leaks.
Modern design. Stylish appearance, backlit digital display, beeping buttons will lift your mood and decorate the interior.
Removable cover. If you are going to install the machine under a countertop, pay attention to models with a removable lid.
Silence. It matters if there is a small child in the house, you do laundry at night, or you just like silence.
Inventory engine. It is more durable than usual, consumes less energy, and is quieter.
Maintainability. Includes the ability to replace damaged systems, low cost and availability of parts.

The deciding factor when choosing is often the type of load. Frontal, vertical, built-in furniture and under the countertop options have their strengths and weaknesses. Let's focus on these subtleties.

How to care and video

The top-loading machine should be installed so that it is possible to open the top cover and leave it in this position for ventilation.

The rules of care are similar to standard cases:

Wipe internal and external surfaces with an absorbent cloth.
Run the drum cleaning program approximately once a month.

Use bleach products once a week or wash more often at 60 degrees. This will prevent a musty smell and prevent mold from spreading.
Check the lower twist-out filter after each cleaning of the drum and remove any debris from it.

When the fungus has already appeared, you just need to remove its traces with a mixture of boric acid and hydrogen peroxide (1:1), and then run a washing cycle with powder, in the presence of bleach, at 60 degrees.

To avoid scale deposits from hard water, use liquid detergents more often and wash regularly (once every 2 weeks) with citric acid. Tulle, colored fabrics and snow-white cotton will only improve their appearance in an acidic environment.

If when buying a washing machine you are guided only by its dimensions, then the best option is vertical loading. The remaining advantages of the design are secondary.

Design and design differences between vertical and front loading washing machines

Any automatic washing machine can be either front-facing or vertical. The latter differs in that the laundry items are placed on top. To do this, the top cover is folded back and the laundry is loaded into a special hatch in the drum. This opening must be closed during washing.

Front-type washing machines involve loading dirty clothes (and unloading washed ones) through a special hatch. It is located on the front plane of the washing machine.

Both professionals and ordinary users do not find any fundamental differences in the quality of washing with these two types of machines. That is, both devices fulfill their main mission in good faith. So it’s too early to draw conclusions - first we’ll compare the advantages and disadvantages of different types of washing machines.